Newcastle defender Sebastien Bassong is not allowing talk of a big money summer move to Arsenal to get in the way of the fight for top-flight survival.

The 22-year-old Frenchman has been a big hit on Tyneside since completing a s1.5million move from Metz, and has on more than one occasion been linked with a switch to the Emirates Stadium.

However, Bassong, who had established himself as a regular in the side at St James' Park, is concentrating only on the task of helping to keep the Magpies out of the bottom three during the remaining nine games of his debut season in English football.

That season will continue with a home match against the Gunners on Saturday evening, one from which Newcastle desperately need to emerge with something to show for their efforts if they are to stay out of the drop zone.

Despite the speculation, that is the only thing on Bassong's mind going into the game.

He said: "I came here to play in the big games. For me it's a new country and a new league to play in - everything is good.

"I am enjoying it here at Newcastle because I am playing.

"When you play football, it's the best gift you can have in life, so I am enjoying it.

"I hope everything will be fine in the dressing room for the future. But for myself, I am happy to be here."

Bassong was signed by Kevin Keegan as he rebuilt his squad during the close season, and was not expected to make an impact so quickly.

However, Keegan was on his way out of the club within weeks and with injuries and a lack of form severely limiting the Magpies' options at the back, he was thrown in at the deep end.

He was initially employed at left-back and clearly did not enjoy the experience, but has been a revelation since being switched to his more accustomed central role.

But the man himself has not been at all surprised at how quickly he has settled into the team.

He said: "For myself, I am not surprised. I was ready in my head to play in the Premier League.

"Once I knew I was coming to England to play for Newcastle, I was ready. I told that to my family and friends.

"I knew all about the English spirit and I knew I am the type of player who can deal with it.

"I am not surprised I have slotted in so well."

Meanwhile, caretaker boss Chris Hughton is hoping to have midfielder Joey Barton back in harness for the final five games of the season.

The 26-year-old has been sidelined by a fractured metatarsal since the end of January and is still several weeks away from a return.

However, Hughton believes he could be back at the end of next month, which would give him five games in which to play his part in the club's bid for safety.